News

Open house will allow public to see hospital expansion prior to opening

Boscobel Area Health Care is inviting the public for a sneak preview of their new addition during an Open House, Saturday, April 26, and Sunday, April 27, 2008.

"The new addition would not have been possible without the support of the community. We want community members to have a chance to see the space before we open," said Mary Sprosty, Community Relations Coordinator. The new addition is expected to be operational in mid May, a full month ahead of the original schedule.

Sprosty said the event is not just an opportunity to see the new addition. "This event is a celebration of community health. We will have physician speakers, educational displays, health screenings, and safety items to give away. We are not just celebrating additional space and capital. We are celebrating an expansion of our health care future."

Saturday will begin with a short ceremony at 11:30, prior to the open house. The ceremony will include brief comments by the Board of Directors, as well as others involved in the building project. The open house begins at noon.

Saturday's open house will include a health fair, with displays and information on car seat safety, bike safety, sleep disorders, smoking cessation, cardiovascular health, and projects of the Boscobel Area Health Care Partners. Bike helmets will be given away to the first 150 people who stop at the booth.

Sunday will feature physician speakers. Dr. John Moses, a WI Heart Cardiologist who practices at both Boscobel Area Health Care and Meriter Heart Hospital, will present on "Gender Differences in Heart Disease" at 1:00 p.m. on April 27th. Research shows men and women experience difference symptoms of heart disease. Knowing what to look for is crucial in recognizing a heart attack and getting help early.

Dr. James Yurcek, surgeon, will present on "Surgery, Close to Home" at 2:30 p.m. on April 27th. Operating Nurse Manager Amy Franklin explained "There are many benefits to having procedures done locally, in a familiar environment with loved ones able to visit. This presentation will overview what surgical procedures we offer locally, and what specialists we work with."

Both days will include free screenings. Boscobel Area Health Care will be offering blood pressure and glucose screenings. Meriter Heart Hospital will be offering body mass index and body composition screenings, and WI Heart & Vascular Institute will be offering vascular screenings.

The open house will include guided tours of the entire facility, not just the new addition. The new area will be the main focus, as it will serve as the new entrance, waiting area, walk-in clinic, specialist center, and emergency room. The medical unit and birthing suites, which were remodeled in the 1990's, and some of the outpatient and diagnostic services will also be showcased.

The new addition is scheduled to open for patient care in mid-May.